Avalanches can develop when a snowpack becomes unstable on a mountain slope, and understanding the conditions that increase this risk can help us make safer decisions.

In this article, we explain how avalanches form, which conditions can contribute to instability, how we can reduce exposure, and what actions can help when an avalanche begins.

How Avalanches Form

An avalanche occurs when a mass of snow becomes unstable on a slope and moves downhill under gravity. Snow conditions can change after heavy snowfall, strong wind, warming, or other disturbances, so a slope that appears stable can become hazardous.

The structure of the snowpack also matters. Different layers can have different strength and bonding, and a weak layer beneath heavier snow can contribute to instability. Slope angle, recent snowfall, temperature changes, wind loading, and disturbances from people can all affect stability.

The main practical point is that visible snow alone does not show whether a slope is stable. A large amount of snow can move rapidly once a failure begins, leaving little time to react.

How We Can Reduce Risk

1. Avoid known avalanche terrain. Before entering snowy mountain areas, check reliable local avalanche information and follow current safety guidance.

2. Be cautious after heavy snowfall. New snow adds weight to the existing snowpack and can increase instability, particularly when it has not bonded well with older layers.

3. Watch for rapid weather changes. Heavy snowfall, strong wind, and warming can alter snow stability. When conditions are uncertain, choosing safer terrain is a reasonable option.

4. Travel one at a time in exposed areas. Keeping people separated limits simultaneous exposure and leaves other members available to assist if an incident occurs.

5. Choose lower-risk routes. Routes away from avalanche paths and slopes with lower exposure can reduce the consequences of unstable snow.

6. Carry suitable rescue equipment. Equipment is useful when we know how to operate it and have practiced the required rescue procedures beforehand.

A common mistake is judging a slope only by its appearance. Avalanche conditions depend on several factors, including the snowpack, slope, recent weather, and route position.

What We Should Do During An Avalanche

1. Move away from the avalanche path. If snow begins moving, try to reach the side of the path rather than continuing downhill.

2. Avoid running directly downhill. Moving sideways toward safer terrain can provide a better escape route when enough space and time are available.

3. Release equipment when appropriate. Skis, poles, or other equipment can interfere with movement during burial. However, actions should not delay an immediate escape.

4. Protect the airway. If moving snow reaches us, try to keep the mouth and nose clear and create breathing space when possible.

5. Try to remain near the surface. If we are carried by moving snow, controlled swimming-style movements can help maintain a higher position in the moving snow.

6. Stay calm after the snow stops. If buried, unnecessary movement can consume oxygen and energy. Focus on maintaining breathing space and using available rescue equipment.

Rescue After Burial

If someone is buried and other group members are safe, begin an organized rescue as quickly as possible. Use appropriate rescue equipment according to training and locate the buried person before carefully clearing snow from the airway.

Rescuers should also consider the possibility of another avalanche. Entering unstable terrain without evaluating the remaining hazard can expose additional people to danger.

If communication equipment is available, use it according to established emergency procedures. Clear information about the location, number of people involved, and visible hazards can help rescuers understand the situation.

For personal medical questions, consult a qualified clinician.

Avalanche safety begins before we enter a snowy slope. By checking conditions, choosing routes carefully, carrying suitable equipment, and responding quickly when snow becomes unstable, we can reduce exposure and improve our ability to respond during an emergency.

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